We all know how good getting out of your head and into your body can be for our moods. Moving your body in a way that feels good is proven to boost serotonin levels, those feel good hormones. Nevertheless, a deficit of serotonin can lead to feelings of depression and despair.

10 Benefits to an Active Lifestyle:

1. Feel happier by improving your mood and decreasing feelings of depression, anxiety and stress
2. Aid weight loss by increasing your metabolic rate which burns more calories
3. Build muscles and bones
4. Increase energy levels
5. Reduce risk of chronic disease
6. Support skin health by providing antioxidant protection and promoting blood flow
7. Brain health and memory by improving blood flow to the brain
8. Relaxation and sleep quality
9. Reduce pain and increase pain tolerance
10. Promote a better sex life by proving sexual desire, function and performance

It’s time to let go of the term exercise and replace it with movement. Think of movement as something that is really fun, exciting and light – not dreadful. Take a moment to think about what type of movement your body wants. What kind of movement did you love to do as a kid? What type of movement might be fun to do with others – such as yoga, Zumba, belly dancing or Pilates.

Movement Ideas

• Biking
• Roller-skating
• Rollerblading
• Yoga
• Dance
• Jogging
• Zumba
• Chopping Wood
• Hiking
• Swimming
• Sex
• Pilates
• Walking
• Rock-climbing
• Skateboarding
• Horseback riding
• Tennis

• Basketball
• Soccer
• Golf
• Fencing
• Martial Arts
• Cleaning
• Martial arts
• Skiing
• Snowboarding
• Jogging/running
• Lifting weights
• Jazzercise
• Carrying children
• TRX
• Cardio barre
• Surfing
• Hockey

What is something that you’ve never tried but have always wanted to try? Create your own movement menu by either pick 3-4 items or adding onto this list, schedule a day on your calendar, give it a go and see how you feel afterwards.